Construction work is essential, but it’s also one of the most dangerous jobs out there. From falls and heavy equipment to toxic exposure, the risks are real and often unpredictable. That’s why it’s so important to understand the most common causes of construction site injuries and know when it’s time to call in legal help. When something goes wrong, having the right legal support can protect your rights, make sure you’re treated fairly, and help you focus on healing and getting back on your feet.
1. Falls from Heights
Falls from heights are one of the most common and dangerous accidents on construction sites. Whether it’s working on scaffolding, climbing ladders, or navigating rooftops with unprotected edges, the risk is high—and the injuries can be life-altering. Broken bones, spinal injuries, and head trauma are all too common. What’s worse is when proper fall protection isn’t in place or isn’t maintained. Harnesses, guardrails, and safety nets aren’t optional, they’re lifesaving. If you were hurt in a fall and safety protocols were ignored, it’s time to talk to a lawyer. You deserve to be protected both on the job and after an injury.
2. Struck-by Object Accidents
Stucky-by object accidents happen fast but can leave lasting damage. Picture a wrench falling from scaffolding or a load slipping off a forklift. These incidents can lead to serious construction site injuries like concussions, broken bones, or worse. Even being hit by heavy equipment or caught in a vehicle’s blind spot can be devastating. These accidents are often preventable with the right safety measures: hard hats, warning signs, proper storage, and clear protocols around machinery. When someone fails to follow safety rules and you get hurt, it’s not just bad luck. It may be negligence.
3. Electrocutions
Electrocutions are one of the most dangerous types of construction site injuries. Workers may accidentally come into contact with live wires, exposed circuits, or unmarked power sources. It often happens when there’s poor communication, rushed timelines, or inadequate training. Sometimes, it’s because safety protocols or OSHA guidelines weren’t followed. Electrocution can lead to severe burns, nerve damage, or even death. And when it happens due to someone else’s oversight or failure to follow regulations, it’s more than just an accident—it’s a case worth investigating.
4. Caught-in or Between Accidents
Caught-in or between accidents are some of the most traumatic construction site injuries. These occur when a worker is trapped between heavy equipment, pulled into machinery, or buried in a trench collapse. Unguarded machines, narrow working spaces, and unstable excavation sites are often to blame. The injuries from these accidents are usually severe, including crushed limbs, broken bones, or even fatalities. These are not always just “freak accidents.” They’re often preventable with the right safety measures.
5. Equipment Malfunctions
Equipment malfunctions can lead to serious, even life-altering construction site injuries. Whether it’s a faulty power tool, a crane with worn cables, or a vehicle with brake failure, the consequences can be devastating. These accidents aren’t always the worker’s fault—sometimes the issue is poor maintenance, and other times the equipment was defective from the start. In these cases, a product liability claim against the manufacturer or maintenance company may be warranted. If you’ve been injured due to malfunctioning equipment, an injury attorney can help investigate the cause and hold the responsible parties accountable so you can focus on recovery.
6. Exposure to Hazardous Substances
Working on a construction site often means being around hazardous substances like chemicals, asbestos, or toxic fumes. Without the right protective gear or clear warnings, exposure can lead to serious long-term health issues like respiratory problems, skin conditions, or even cancer. These aren’t just workplace hazards; they can affect your quality of life for years to come. When employers fail to provide proper safety measures or ignore OSHA standards, they put workers at risk. In these cases, toxic tort claims may be an option.
When to Call a Lawyer
Not every construction injury requires a lawyer, but there are clear signs that you should make that call. If your injuries are severe, life-changing, or you’re facing a long recovery, legal help can ensure you’re compensated fairly. If your workers’ comp claim gets denied or delayed, or if a third party (like a subcontractor or equipment manufacturer) played a role, an attorney can step in. Safety violations at the job site? That’s another red flag. And if you’re feeling pressured to settle quickly, especially before you understand the full impact of your injury, don’t do it alone. Talk to a lawyer first.
Choose LeBaron & Jensen for Reliable Lawyers
If you’ve been injured on a construction site, your health should always come first. Seek medical attention immediately, and once you’re stable, it’s time to consider your legal options. A construction accident can lead to long-term challenges, and you deserve to have your rights protected. At LeBaron & Jensen, we’re here to help you navigate the legal process, explore your options, and ensure you receive the compensation you deserve. Contact us today to talk with an experienced injury attorney and get the support you need during this difficult time.
